Navy Sea Service Deployment Mini-Ribbon

Instituted: 1981 (retroactive to 1974) Criteria: forward deployed for a period of 90 consecutive days, or two periods of at least 80 days within a 12 month period or 6 months stationed overseas in a forward deployed location. Devices: Bronze, Silver Star The Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon was approved by the Secretary of the Navy in 1981 and made retroactive to August 15, 1974. The ribbon was created to recognize the unique and demanding nature of sea service and the arduous duty attendant with such service deployments. The award is made to Navy and Marine Corps personnel for twelve months of accumulated sea duty or duty with the Fleet Marine Force, which includes at least one, ninety day deployment. The ribbon consists of a wide center stripe of light blue, bordered on either side by a narrow stripe of medium blue and equal stripes of gold, red and navy blue. Additional awards are denoted by three-sixteenth inch bronze stars. The Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is worn after the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and before the Navy Arctic Service Ribbon.